The Marathi cinema got a big boost in 2023 with Baipan Bhari Deva. The film starred six female actresses in the lead and it was a runaway success from day 1. The film was loved for its concept, performances, relatability and music; moreover, it also has a universal appeal. It means it has the potential to be adapted to other languages. The enterprising producer Boney Kapoor has taken the initiative and is all set to remake the Marathi blockbuster down South.

A source told Bollywood Hungama, “Boney Kapoor was quite blown by Baipan Bhari Deva. He began the process of getting the rights to the film in 2024. The same year, he managed to acquire the rights. He now has the rights to remake the film in Tamil and Telugu languages.”

The source further said, “He paid a whopping Rs. 2 crores for the remake rights as he is aware of the potential of Baipan Bhari Deva’s story.”

Another source told us, “Boney ji will soon lock the directors for the Tamil and Telugu versions and also cast appropriate faces. He’s confident that the female actors from the two industries would be too excited to be a part of such a film, where all the females have author-backed roles.”

Directed by Kedar Shinde and backed by Jio Studios in association with Emveebee Media, Baipan Bhari Deva features Rohini Hattangadi, Deepa Parab, Vandana Gupte, Suchitra Bandekar, Shilpa Navalkar and Sukanya Kulkarni. It tells the story of six estranged sisters who are forced to come together for the ‘Managala Gaur’ competition. It collected a huge Rs. 76.05 crores in cinemas and is the second highest grosser of Marathi cinema after Sairat (2016).

Last year, on Women’s Day 2024, Kedar Shinde and Jio Studios announced a sequel to Baipan Bhari Deva, titled Aaipan Bhari Deva. Last week, the studio announced the plans to re-release in cinemas on Baipan Bhari Deva on March 7, 2025, to coincide with International Women's Day, which falls just a day later.

Also Read: No Entry 2 Major Update: Anees Bazmee and Boney Kapoor set off on recce to Greece; see pics

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who has been one of the most loved actors in terms of brand endorsements, has been signed on as the brand ambassador in one-of-a-kind move by Elan Group. The Gurugram-based realty group is known for over 15 projects that encompasses not just residential but also commercial and hospitality projects. Confirming the same, the group has issued a statement about bringing the megastar on board, asserting that their values resonate with each other.

Sharing his excitement over this collaboration, Shah Rukh Khan has expressed his happiness and said, "I've always believed that greatness is achieved by those who dare to push boundaries. Elan Group embodies that fearless spirit, and I'm delighted to be part of this association."

Director of Elan Group Akash Kapoor also opened up about his association and added, "I am beyond honoured to welcome Mr. Shah Rukh Khan, to the 'Elan' family. At Elan Group, we don't just build projects -we create icons. Shah Rukh Khan is more than just a Super Star-He is phenomenal. His larger-than-life presence, influence, and relentless pursuit of perfection align seamlessly with Elan's philosophy and the 'Elan' Brand."

In a press statement issued by the brand, it read, "Shah Rukh Khan has captivated audiences worldwide, shaping aspirations, setting trends, and redefining excellence. His journey-marked by passion, resilience and greatness -resonates deeply with Elan Group's vision. This association is more than an endorsement; it is a powerful synergy of ambition, perfection, achievement and the relentless pursuit of perfection-values that define both 'Elan Group' and 'Shah Rukh Khan', the stars and icons in their respective fields”.

On the film front, Shah Rukh Khan is expected to be seen in Siddharth Anand’s King which also is expected to mark the theatrical debut of his daughter Suhana Khan.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan rents 2 duplexes in Bandra for Rs 2.90 crores: Reports

Bollywood actors Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt have been seen filming in Saudi Arabia for their cameos in the Hollywood remake of the 2021 Argentine film Seven Dogs. Leaked videos show both actors on set, sparking excitement among fans. The shoot took place in an undisclosed location, with Salman Khan in a de-glam avatar, while Sanjay Dutt was spotted in a dapper navy blue suit. The film is expected to introduce the two actors to a global audience, although official announcements are still pending.

Leaked Videos Reveal Salman Khan’s Look Recent social media clips show Salman Khan in a khaki driver’s uniform, standing beside an auto-rickshaw, suggesting a grounded character. In another clip, he sports a checked shirt with a red handkerchief under his collar, resembling the style of Mumbai’s working-class individuals. Between takes, Salman was seen casually interacting with the crew, adding to the authenticity of his role.

MEGASTAR SALMAN KHAN in Saudi Arabia today #Sikandar #SalmanKhan pic.twitter.com/pUVl8WMvoc — Lokendra Kumar (@rasafi24365) February 19, 2025

Sanjay Dutt’s Stylish Appearance in the Film Alongside Salman Khan, Sanjay Dutt appears in viral videos donning a navy blue suit, exuding a sophisticated and impactful presence. Reports indicate that Dutt will feature in crucial scenes in this American thriller, further elevating the film’s appeal. A source told Mid-Day, "Salman and Sanjay are widely recognized, especially in the Middle East. Their scenes have been designed to leave an impact."

Bhai and Baba are in Saudi Arabia to shoot cameo for a Hollywood movie ????... #Salmankhan #Sanjaydutt #Sikandar pic.twitter.com/ZoTZ6mNae4 — Adil Hashmi????‍???? (@X4SALMAN) February 19, 2025

Hollywood Debut for Salman Khan? While neither actor has officially confirmed their involvement, the speculation surrounding Salman Khan’s Hollywood debut is gaining traction. The film’s production team has maintained secrecy due to strict non-disclosure agreements. However, the leaked videos have fueled discussions about the Bollywood superstar’s crossover into international cinema.

Latest glimpse of Megastar #SalmanKhan from Saudi Arabia. ???????? #Sikandar.pic.twitter.com/XYvO89eIR3 — MASS (@Freak4Salman) February 20, 2025

Meanwhile, Salman Khan is preparing for the release of Sikandar, co-starring Rashmika Mandanna. Directed by Ghajini filmmaker AR Murugadoss, the movie is set for an Eid 2025 release. Reports also suggest that Kick 2 is in the pipeline for the Bollywood actor.

Also Read: Saqib Saleem recalls getting call from Salman Khan for Race 3; says, “I was like, what is there to check? I am doing the film”

After captivating audiences with his versatile performances, Ali Fazal is set to headline another high-octane action thriller series, this time collaborating with the acclaimed Prosit Roy, director of Paatal Lok Season 1. Adding to the excitement, the film will also feature the ever-graceful Sonali Bendre in a pivotal role. Ali Fazal has become the most prominent actor headlining major shows and will he another addition soon. Set to shoot quickly in April, the actor is expected to be seen in an avatar like never before.

The yet-to-be-titled project will commence production in mid-2025, once Ali Fazal wraps up his current commitments with Raj & DK’s period fantasy drama series, Rakht Brahmand.

Speaking about the collaboration, a source close to the production shared, "This series is designed to be a thrilling, large-scale action spectacle, unlike anything Ali has done before. Prosit Roy’s unique vision and storytelling prowess make him the perfect director to helm this project. With Ali’s dedication to his craft and Sonali Bendre’s strong screen presence, we are looking at a film that will push boundaries in both narrative depth and action sequences. The team is gearing up for something truly special."

The series promises to be a gripping cinematic experience, blending intense action with a deeply layered narrative. Along with this new series, Ali Fazal is also gearing up for the much-anticipated Mirzapur: The Film releases of Metro In Dino, Lahore 1947, the pan-India film Thug Life, his Hollywood venture Rule Breakers, and Rakht Brahmand.

Also Read: Amazon Prime Video shelves Rs. 120 cr. budget Gulkanda Tales; Raj & DK’s shows under fire

Arjun Kapoor stars in Mudassar Aziz’s upcoming film, Mere Husband Ki Biwi. The movie revolves around his character’s chaotic love life as his ex-wife, played by Bhumi Pednekar, suffers retrograde amnesia, forgetting their divorce, while he prepares to marry his fiancée, played by Rakul Preet Singh.

Love circles are entertaining on screen, but not in real life While love triangles may make for engaging cinematic content, Arjun Kapoor believes they are far from enjoyable in reality. In an interview with ETimes, he shared his thoughts on the matter. “Iss situation mein bechare ke saath jo hua hai and his past comes back because she's lost her memory. That is not a fun situation in real life to have somebody stuck in,” Arjun remarked. He further stated that such entanglements are unhealthy and should be avoided.

‘Somebody always gets hurt’ in love triangles The actor highlighted the emotional toll of being caught in a love triangle. “I don't think anybody should be stuck in this situation or get themselves in this situation where you are trying to play two sides. I don't think that's healthy.” According to Arjun, someone in such a scenario inevitably ends up hurt, making it a distressing experience rather than an exciting one.

Single life vs. committed life: Arjun’s perspective Discussing relationships further, Arjun differentiated between being single and being in a committed relationship. “See, if you're single, it's different, and when you're with someone, it's different. When you are single, in a colloquial way, you can 'have fun.' But when you are in a relationship, you cannot do this.”

Also Read: Rakul Preet Singh speaks on learning football for Mere Husband Ki Biwi: “Late-night practices after shoot, drills, every kick, every move was…”

The big release of the week is Mere Husband Ki Biwi, starring Arjun Kapoor, Rakul Preet Singh and Bhumi Pednekar. The film has caught attention due to its quirky title, the chemistry between the leads and the concept. In this Bollywood Hungama special feature, we’ll focus on the cuts given to the film by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).

The Examining Committee (EC) of the CBFC asked for four modifications - one visual and three dialogue-related. The visuals of the 'woman hand gesture' were asked to be replaced. The EC replaced the word 'Haryanvi' with 'Ek Gang'.

Further, they asked to replace 'Modi ji' with 'The Government'. Finally, they asked the makers to reduce 'sensual audio of woman' by 50%. As per the sources, it was probably implemented in the scene, which is also shown in the trailer, where Rakul Preet Singh's character moans loudly while Arjun Kapoor's character kisses her neck, in order to make Bhumi Pednekar's character jealous.

Once these changes were made, Mere Husband Ki Biwi was passed with a UA 13+ rating. This new rating, where the age is mentioned, was introduced reportedly in November 2024. As per reports, U/A 16+ and U/A 7+ ratings have also been implemented. In recent times, Sky Force also received a U/A 13+ rating while films like Chhaava, Deva, Loveyapa, Badass Ravi Kumar etc. were passed with a U/A 16+ rating.

The censor certificate was handed over to the makers of Mere Husband Ki Biwi on February 17. The length of the film, as mentioned on the certificate, is 143.44 minutes. In other words, Mere Husband Ki Biwi’s runtime is 2 hours 23 minutes and 44 seconds.

Mere Husband Ki Biwi is produced by Jackky Bhagnani, who is married to the film’s actress, Rakul Preet Singh. Interestingly, the film releases on February 21, which also marks their first wedding anniversary.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Sweet coincidence as Rakul Preet Singh’s Mere Husband Ki Biwi to release on her wedding anniversary: “Hope Jackky Bhagnani can fly down to Patiala to meet me on February 21”; also comments on actresses being sidelined in action films: “Women used to have strong roles…”

Sanya Malhotra starrer Mrs. which recently hit the tube has been receiving immense support from Indian women across the country with many resonating with the character of a housewife constantly fulfilling her duties and crushing her dreams, portrayed by the actress. Meanwhile, SIFF aka Save Indian Family Foundation has taken to social media to lash out on the film and called out the producers calling the woes faced by housewives as irrelevant and unnecessary promotion of feminism.

What did the SIFF say? 

Taking to the social media platform X, aka Twitter, the SIFF posted several tweets insisting that there is nothing wrong with women getting overloaded with household work. “What stress does a woman feel, while chopping vegetables and cooking food on a gas stove or doing dishes wearing gloves? Zero, Nothing. In fact, cooking is like a meditation.Is it highly stressful to press cloths or do laundry in a washing machine?,” it read as it continued in another tweet, “Men should never share 50% house work, because 70-80% material, cloths, furniture and gadgets are craved by women and enjoyed by women. Even children are 2-3 times more useful for women than men in old age or at any stage. Why should men do 50% house work then? Men also do unpaid work like fixing things, driving, unpaid bodyguard and luggage coolie. Men should not do more than 20-25% of house work to maintain proper equality.” The tweets invited further wrath of netizens who strongly condemned the words shared by SIFF.

Men should never share 50% house work, because 70-80% material, cloths, furniture and gadgets are craved by women and enjoyed by women. Even children are 2-3 times more useful for women than men in old age or at any stage. Why should men do 50% house work then?

Men also do…

— SIFF - Save Indian Family Foundation (@realsiff) February 14, 2025

Producer Harman Baweja reacts to it

Meanwhile, the producer showcased his support towards feminism and told News18 Showsha, “I’m way past the infuriated stage now. It will take a lot to infuriate me. Maybe, that section of men is looking at this film as a solution and saying that this is the exactly representation of all men, which isn’t necessarily the truth. If a film has a male and female character, it doesn’t mean all men and women are like that. Every house is unique. The fragrance, the etiquette and the way food are served in every household will be different”. He added, “It’s important to not look at the film in isolation. We need to understand that Mrs is the story of a particular woman and a lot of women relate to parts of it. There may also be those – who I would think belongs to evolved households – who don’t relate to the film but understand it because they’ve seen it happening with their mothers. That’s the lens one needs to view the film with.”

He also addressed the subject of division of household chores and shared, “I’ve a different perspective on it. The essence of the film is to respect each other for what we bring to the table. I love and respect my wife and she loves and respects me for what I bring to the table. We’ve just had two kids and her hands are full." “And she’s a health coach. If I’ve to come in at some point when she has got back to back calls, I’ll do that. The same goes for her,” he added.

About Mrs.

Starring Sanya Malhotra, Nishant Dahiya, Kanwaljeet Singh, among others, the film is an adaptation of the Malayalam film The Great Indian Kitchen and revolves a newlywed girl who soon gets stuck in the authoritarian, patriarchal mindset of her household.

Also Read: Sanya Malhotra expresses gratitude for overwhelming response for Mrs: “Thank you for embracing Mrs with so much love”

Raj Nidimoru and Krishna D.K. are filmmakers who haven’t had a dearth of work since OTT platforms blew up in India. The two have given back-to-back shows and some of the most successful and talked about web series since then. The Family Man (2019) starring Manoj Bajpayee was an instant hit on Prime Video and soon it got green-lit for a second season, which was also received well. Then they made Farzi (2023) for Prime Video, which marked B-town star Shahid Kapoor’s OTT debut. They also made Guns & Gulaabs in the same year for Netflix, which had top actors like Dulquer Salmaan and Rajkummar Rao. Both shows got mixed reactions from the audience.

In 2024, came their biggest show, Citadel: Honey Bunny – a spy thriller backed by Russo Brothers - no less! This marked the OTT debut of Bollywood star Varun Dhawan who was cast opposite actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu. This was an ambitious project, but it got a poor response, way below what Prime Video and Russo Brothers would have imagined. Industry sources tell us that the Indian instalment of Citadel may not be renewed for another season as the cost of production did not justify the output. Citadel: Honey Bunny was promoted widely by Prime Video along with the American Citadel starring Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Richard Madden and Citadel: Diana, the Italian version, which got positive reviews.

Before the release of Citadel: Honey Bunny, Bollywood Hungama sat down with Raj & DK in London for an interview and asked them how they manage juggling all the work that they have taken. Raj Nidimoru said, “DK and I had to wait a lot in the early part of our career for stars to give us dates. We have a lot of stories, and we can’t wait to get them all out. Now that we have the reigns in our hands for the past few years and we became producers, it’s time to push all these out.” The show got flak for casting Varun Dhawan in an action role, to which Raj had told Bollywood Hungama, “I like to push actors, I like to see them in a new light.”

Reports are already out that financial fraud has been found on the production of their next big ticket show Rakt Bramhand starring Aditya Roy Kapur, Wamiqa Gabi, Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Ali Fazal. The financial fraud goes up to as high as Rs 2 crore. A scam connected with the executive producer of the show. Mishandling of funds was detected which exposed accounting irregularities. A source said that Netflix has taken this matter seriously and launched an investigation. Netflix and D2R films hold the highest standards of compliance in their production. Therefore, when an irregularity was observed, the investigation was initiated across the board (internally and externally). The investigation process is still ongoing. Rakt Bramhand was going to be a part of Netflix’s slate announcement but suddenly it didn’t see any mention along with the other series raising more questions.

Well, that’s not it. Here is another big blow to the director duo. The two have completed a series titled Gulkanda Tales – a period sex comedy for Prime Video, which stars Pankaj Tripathi, Abhishek Banerjee and Kunal Kemmu. Raj and DK are the producers of this and Tumbaad director Rahi Anil Barve is the director. This is a fictional story of a kingdom in ancient India where strange events occur. A source associated with the project told BH. “Why will anyone get upset with any of these jokes in the show? This is fiction. This has a funny take on feminism and how misogyny is dealt with and some comedy which shows mishaps in Kamasutra.” Another fact is that this show has gone through quite a bit of re-shoots and re-edits considering the feedback from Prime Video and because of that the budget has gone up. Bollywood Hungama heard about the management of the OTT platform flipped when they saw the rushes that have been shot, as none of this will be acceptable in today’s atmosphere. Prime Video did not comment on any of this, but we hear this show may not see the light of the day, anytime soon even though it’s completely shot. A whopping amount of Rs 120 crore has been spent on it and it’s been over two years since it was announced.

Trade experts said that the filmmakers have taken way more than they can handle and it’s showing in the quality which is evident from their recent releases.

One sigh of relief for Raj and DK is, that their tried and tested show The Family Man S3 starring Manoj Bajpayee for Prime Video seems to be on track. That’s the one they are now banking on.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Gulkanda Tales to release on Prime Video during THIS period

What happens when Bollywood stars Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt unite for a film? It generates instant buzz. The two actors are taking their on-screen chemistry beyond Bollywood, stepping into a Hollywood thriller. The duo has flown to Saudi Arabia to film their cameos for the international project. Shooting has commenced at the newly launched AlUla Studios and is expected to continue until February 19.

Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt reunite for a Hollywood project? A report by Mid-Day revealed that Khan and Dutt will be seen in pivotal sequences of the American thriller. While the project’s title remains under wraps due to strict NDAs, industry insiders confirm that the film aims to appeal to a global audience. The report quoted a source saying, “Salman and Sanjay are widely recognized, especially in the Middle East. Their scenes have been crafted to leave an impact.” Filming at AlUla Studios AlUla Studios has become a preferred location for international productions. Hollywood films like Gerard Butler’s Kandahar (2023) have already been shot here. The ongoing Hollywood thriller will utilize this cinematic backdrop to enhance its visuals. Salman Khan’s team reportedly landed in Riyadh on Sunday morning to kick off the three-day shoot. Salman Khan and Sanjay Dutt Films, Projects So Far… Khan and Dutt have shared the screen in several films, including Saajan (1991), Chal Mere Bhai (2000), and Yeh Hai Jalwa (2002). Their collaboration has always been a crowd-puller. Last year, the duo reunited for Old Money, a track by Indo-Canadian rapper Dhillon, blending Bollywood nostalgia with contemporary Punjabi beats.

Speaking of the professional front, Salman will be next seen in Sikandar, directed by AR Murugadoss. The film will also star Rashmika Mandanna as the female lead, Pratiek Babbar as the antagonist, and Satyaraj and Sharman Joshi playing other pivotal characters. Meanwhile, Sanjay Dutt also has a bunch of projects in his kitty, including Housefull 5, Baaghi 4, and the sequel of Son Of Sardar.

Also Read: From Salman Khan to Kareena Kapoor Khan: Celebs shower love on JioHotstar’s launch

Ektaa R. Kapoor, her family, and ALT Digital Media Entertainment Ltd. are taking a firm legal stand against false and misleading allegations being spread about them. In 2020, Hindustani Bhau filed a misleading complaint against Ektaa R Kapoor, accusing her of disrespecting our jawans. Despite the police complaint being closed and the court not taking cognizance of the matter, it has been report that some individuals are continuing to defame them for personal gain. Advocate Rizwan Siddiquee has been instructed to initiate strict legal action, including Rs. Rs.100 crore defamation suit and criminal proceedings, against those responsible.

In a statement shared by Rizwan Siddiqui on social media platform X aka Twitter, it is said, “Under instructions and on behalf of my client Ms. Ektaa R. Kapoor, her family members and ALT Digital Media Entertainment Ltd., I would like to place on record as under: 1) That some persons and entities with personal vested interests coupled with hidden agendas and criminal motives are posting false and misleading information, concerning my said clients and an old 2020 police complaint, which was already closed by the said Police Department.

It further read, “That when the said matter was again taken up before the Learned 9th Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate of Bandra Court, he did NOT take any cognizance of the said complaint and has instead asked for a police investigation report 'to first ascertain the veracity and genuineness of the complaint brought before him. This is called 'postponement of issuance of process under law. That under such given situation, no one should have recklessly issued any public statement or article, therein directly or indirectly insinuating or suggesting that my client has committed any wrong, as alleged. That regardless of this fact and the legal position, some people are still criminally trying to defame my clients and garner publicity, at the cost of their name and reputation. Accordingly, I have been instructed to initiate strict legal proceedings both under the civil as well as criminal laws, against such wrong-doers. Accordingly, do note that my clients are interalia contemplating to sue such wrong-doers by filing a 100 Crores civil defamation suit against them, besides criminal proceedings."

Everyone concerned please note : pic.twitter.com/AisLoFlJeD — Advocate Rizwan Siddiquee (@RizwanSiddiquee) February 16, 2025

For the unversed, Hindustani Bhau, aka Vikas Pathak had accused ALT Balaji along with Ektaa Kapoor, her parents Jeetendra and Shobha Kapoor of allegedly disrespecting Indian soldiers in 2020, under Section 202 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. Taking action against the same, PTI had reported that the court directed the police to conduct an inquiry.

Also Read: Akhil Sachdeva opens up about collaborating with Ekta Kapoor for ‘Tere Mere Darmiyaan’ from The Sabarmati Report; says, “She always wanted to use the song in a right film”

While controversies continue for Elvish Yadav, it seems that his recent comments on Bigg Boss contestant Chum Darang have landed him in further trouble. FWICE (Federation of Western India Cine Employees) has decided to take a stand against the YouTube influencer and reality show star by penning a letter requesting the channel and producers to remove Yadav from the reality show Laughter Chef Season 2 by expressing concern that he may have a negative influence on the youth.

“We strongly condemn the promotion of Mr. Elvish Yadav. As you are well aware, he has made racial comments against Bigg Boss 18 contestant Chum Darang and has faced significant backlash on social media," the FWICE letter from President BN Tiwari read, as per ETimes Report. Further addressing the snake venom rave party controversy, the letter added, “Furthermore, several cases have been registered against him, including his arrest in the snake venom rave party case. He also faces legal charges under the Wildlife Act in Noida for allegedly arranging snake venom at rave parties."

The letter opened up about the impact Yadav has on the current generation youth and expressed concerns over the negative influence he may have on them. "He is widely followed by the youth of our nation, and his actions highly influence them to engage in illegal activities. We strongly condemn all his acts that go against the welfare of society and the values of our country. We strongly object to Colors Channel promoting Elvish Yadav and request you to discontinue your association with him for the betterment of society and the nation. We hope you understand the severity of the matter and our concerns. We look forward to your immediate and necessary action," the letter insisted.

Also Read: Manisha Rani BREAKS silence on unfollowing Elvish Yadav: “If he has ego, I have self-respect”

Mumbai is witnessing a rare cinematic phenomenon as filmmaker Laxman Utekar’s Chhaava, starring Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, and Akshaye Khanna, has been granted midnight and post-midnight shows owing to a crazy public demand. The period action drama, produced by Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films, is running to packed houses, with show timings extending as late as 12:45 am, 1:00 am, 1:15 am, and even 1:30 am in various locations across Mumbai.

It is very rare for a film to get shows as late as 1:30 am. Some of the films that have been granted shows past midnight include the likes of Drishyam 2, Jawan, Pathaan, Animal, Stree 2, Shaitaan, Sooryavanshi, etc. Gangubai Kathiawadi is the only female led film to have got post-midnight shows. As far as Hollywood is concerned, films like Oppenheimer, Avatar: The Way Of Water, etc, have achieved this.

However, all the Hindi movies that have so far received post-midnight shows feature a superstar in the lead. Chhaava is the first film where an emerging superstar like Vicky Kaushal has received this honour. Along with his popularity, the admiration of the people of Maharashtra for Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, on whose life the film is based, is a major reason for the film’s craze.

Chhaava opened in India with Rs. 33.10 crores on Friday February 14. The film is now expected to easily cross Rs. 100 crores in its first weekend itself.

Also Read: Chhaava Box Office: Vicky Kaushal starrer roars with an opening of Rs. 33.10 crores

Akshay Kumar is set to return with another historical drama as his upcoming film, previously titled Shankara, has been renamed Kesari Chapter 2. Bollywood Hungama was the first one to report this earlier this month. The makers have now shared that the much-anticipated sequel to Kesari has officially been titled Kesari Chapter 2 – The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh.

The makers—Dharma Productions, Leo Media Collective, and Cape of Good Films—have also revealed that the film is set to release on April 18, 2025. Co-starring R. Madhavan and Ananya Panday, the film is produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, Cape of Good Films, and Leo Media Collective.

Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, the historical drama stars Akshay Kumar, R. Madhavan, and Ananya Panday in pivotal roles. The film will delve into the tragic events surrounding the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919, promising an intense and emotional cinematic experience.

With Akshay Kumar reprising his role in another patriotic drama, R. Madhavan bringing his acting prowess, and Ananya Panday stepping into an unexplored genre, expectations are sky-high.

Earlier, a source told Bollywood Hungama, “Kesari, an emotional action film, was about the sacrifice of Sikhs during the pre-Independence era. The C Sankaran Nair film is a courtroom drama and, in that regard, it is very different from the 2019 film. However, since it also deals with the brave Sikh community’s contribution and sacrifice against the British and stars Akshay Kumar, the makers felt that Kesari Chapter 2 is an apt title.”

Also Read : EXCLUSIVE: Akshay Kumar-R Madhavan-Ananya Panday’s next gets a title – Kesari Chapter 2

Pushpa 2: The Rule (Reloaded Version) has set the global streaming charts ablaze, marking its second consecutive week on Netflix’s list of Global Top Ten Films (Non-English). Currently ranking #3 worldwide, the film is trending in 14 countries, with a cumulative of 9.4 million views across two weeks, a testament to its massive reach and blockbuster star Allu Arjun’s electrifying screen presence. Available in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Bengali and English, the action-packed blockbuster is captivating audiences across cultures and languages.

Directed by Sukumar and produced by Mythri Movie Makers in collaboration with Sukumar Writings, the film boasts a stellar ensemble, including Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, Fahadh Faasil, Jagapathi Babu, Sunil, Anasuya Bharadwaj, Rao Ramesh and Ajay.

Allu Arjun, whose stellar performance has won hearts worldwide, shared, “The love and adulation for Pushpa 2: The Rule (Reloaded Version) from across the world is truly overwhelming. This film was made with blood, sweat and heart — and to see it connect with audiences at such a massive scale is beyond gratifying. I am incredibly proud of the film’s success on Netflix — through the platform, our story is reaching millions across different countries, breaking language and cultural barriers. And I’m deeply grateful to the fans whose unwavering support and excitement continue to fuel this journey.”

Director Sukumar added, “Pushpa: The Rise set the stage for a world and a character that audiences embraced wholeheartedly, and with Pushpa 2-The Rule, we wanted to take that legacy forward in an even bigger, more immersive way. The film’s success on Netflix is a testament to the universal appeal of Indian cinema, and I’m grateful for the love it continues to receive.”

Monika Shergill, Vice President, Content- Netflix India, shared, “Pushpa 2: The Rule Continues, India’s biggest blockbuster, is now one of the most-watched films on Netflix. The raw intensity of its characters, combined with the fearless vision of director Sukumar and teams at Mythri Movie Makers has set new benchmarks for Indian cinema. We are proud to bring this reloaded edition featuring new scenes that deliver an even more thrilling experience for our audiences. As its influence continues to break boundaries, this reloaded edition stands as a must-watch for our audiences all over the world.”

With its high-octane action sequences and the now-iconic ‘Jathara’ scene (where Arjun dons a saree), the film has received widespread acclaim from both fans and critics. From India to international markets, Pushpa 2: The Rule continues to redefine mass entertainment, proving that the fire of Pushpa’s legacy burns brighter than ever.

Pushpa 2: The Rule (Reloaded Version) is currently streaming on Netflix in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Bengali and English.

Also Read: Allu Arjun reveals Pushpa 2 climax fight shoot took over 18 days, praises Navakanth’s choreography

After rumours of Diljit Dosanjh and Vedang Raina being roped in for an Imtiaz Ali directorial started doing the rounds, now the latest update on that front is that the filmmaker is keen on casting Sharvari as the leading lady. After the stupendous success of Munjya and much love she received for her action-packed role in Vedaa, Sharvari is busy with another highly-anticipated project Alpha. Meanwhile, if this buzz is true, the actress is expected to have another intriguing role in her kitty. 

Speaking of the Imtiaz Ali film, it is expected to be an intense romantic drama. Although details of the same are kept under wraps, a source confirmed Imtiaz’s interest in casting Sharvari in a Pinkvilla report. “Imtiaz wanted to cast someone who is a talented actor and felt Sharvari is best for the part. The industry feels Sharvari has the potential to make it big from her generation and she tick-marked the bucket list of Imtiaz Ali to be a part of his next directorial”, the source said. 

Talking further about the film and also touching upon the character that Sharvari will be seen playing, the source added, “The tale has multiple character arcs, and Sharvari will be seen sharing the screen space with Vedang in this soul-touching romantic film. It’s a different take on romance from everything done by Imtiaz to date, and the pre-production work has already begun”. It is being said that the yet-to-be-titled film is a period love story that is set to go on floors in April. 

Meanwhile, Imtiaz has always showcased his love for Diljit Dosanjh with whom he collaborated for Amar Singh Chamkila and received rave reviews. On the other hand, Vedang, who made his film debut with The Archies and later a theatrical debut with Jigra, will be working with the Rockstar filmmaker for the first time. 

Also Read: Sharvari turns brand ambassador for Wellbeing Nutrition; shares glimpse of their first campaign on social media

The much-anticipated trailer of The Diplomat, starring John Abraham, is set to release on February 14, 2025. Touted as a gripping tale of survival and international rescue, the film promises to showcase the power of diplomacy in high-stakes situations.

A recently shared teaser hints at the film’s intense narrative. It opens with the words "Based on a true story," before introducing actress Sadia Khateeb as Uzma Ahmed. The sequence shows her desperately trying to escape while being pursued by a police jeep. The clip then unveils John Abraham as The Diplomat JP Singh, hinting at the role he plays in this international crisis.

Directed by Shivam Nair and penned by Ritesh Shah, The Diplomat is set for a theatrical release on March 7, 2025. The film is produced by a powerhouse team, including T-Series’ Bhushan Kumar and Krishan Kumar, John Abraham’s JA Entertainment, Wakaoo Films' Vipul D. Shah, Ashwin Varde, and Rajesh Bahl, Fortune Pictures’ Sameer Dixit and Jatish Varma, and Seeta Films' Rakesh Dang.

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With a premise rooted in real-life events, The Diplomat is expected to deliver an engaging mix of action, drama, and diplomacy. Fans can catch the official trailer on February 14.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Moviegoers to be treated to teasers of Thama, Bhool Chuk Maaf, The Diplomat, Andaz Apna Apna with Chhaava

Ajay Devgn has been roped in to provide a voiceover for Chhaava, the upcoming historical drama led by Vicky Kaushal. Directed by Laxman Utekar and produced by Dinesh Vijan, the film is based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and is set for a Valentine’s Day 2025 release. According to a report by Pinkvilla, Devgn has already completed dubbing for his portions.

Why Ajay Devgn Was Chosen for the Role The report stated that Ajay Devgn's powerful voice and impactful dialogue delivery made him the ideal choice for the narration. “Ajay Devgn is among the very few actors in Indian cinema who can captivate audiences with just his voice. His intensity enhances the emotional weight of the scenes,” the report quoted a source. Given his previous role in Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior, which depicted the story of another Maratha warrior, Devgn was more than willing to lend his voice to Chhaava. Ajay Devgn Has Completed Dubbing for Chhaava The source further confirmed that Ajay Devgn completed his voiceover work for the film in the last week. “The voiceover has brought a new dimension to Chhaava, elevating the storytelling experience. His narration is expected to add gravitas to the film’s historical narrative,” they added. What to Expect from Chhaava Starring Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, Chhaava also features Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna in pivotal roles. The film has been generating buzz since the teaser release, and with advance bookings now open, expectations are high for a strong box-office performance. As the first major release of 2025, Chhaava is poised to impact audiences.

Chhaava is scheduled for release on February 14, 2025.

Also Read: Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, Dinesh Vijan and Laxman Utekar seek blessings in Shirdi ahead of Chhaava release

In an earlier interview, Rozlyn Khan accused Hina Khan of using her cancer treatment as a publicity stunt which did not go down well with co-actress and colleague Ankita Lokhande. The Pavitra Rishta actress took to social media to share her disappointment and anger towards the allegations against the YRKHH actress, insisting that her husband Vicky Jain too met her in the midst of her treatment. However, unhappy with the support Lokhande showcased for Hina, Rozlyn decided to slam her and accused her of using her ex-boyfriend Sushant Singh Rajput’s death to gain sympathy on Bigg Boss.

On Tuesday, Ankita Lokhande shared a glimpse of the interview with Rozlyn Khan is throwing allegations at Hina Khan and calling out the latter for her so-called ‘publicity stunt’ and in the post shared on Instagram story, the Manikarnika actress wrote, “"How could someone think so low, my goodness? That’s so cheap! For your kind information, madam, this girl Hina is fighting cancer with such bravery, and I’m saying this because I know it. Vikki met her a few days back in the hospital while she was undergoing chemotherapy, and Rocky was by her side. Vikki told me he was in tears seeing her in that condition. Hina, you are strong, our Sher Khan! This isn’t easy for you or for anyone going through this. God bless you, girl. This too shall pass. @realhinakhan."

However, Khan decided to react to this note by further bringing in Ankita Lokhande’s past and also calling out the fraternity as she insisted that more members from ‘the girl gang’ of the industry will be coming out in support of Hina. “A woman who could use the death of his ex for a big boss is preaching to me about cheapness!! Not a big surprise... Guys, I posted a video a few days ago mentioning how these TV actresses are using their fan pages to reshare my videos, harassing and trolling me, and @lokhandeankita has come forward publicly, assaulting my character. Hina’s cancer is cancer... my cancer just for time pass?? I was exposing one woman, and another one came in for free, but let's ignore her... simply ignore. Now, she’s going to give me lectures on cancer, when she herself needs advice to sustain her own marriage,” her note read.

“I have been repeatedly saying that since I asked a simple question on 15 hours of surgery and discrepancies in the treatment by Hina khan, she chooses to remain silent on this and even hospital has followed the privacy concerns of a patient but they took another route may be to hit me in the back .. there were unidentified people bullying me , multiple bots were set for bad comments on my page ..fan pages of tv actress were Sharing my videos to troll me further, so I had no option but to inform the local police station,” she went on to add.

For the unversed, Rozlyn Khan too is a cancer survivor and has often discussed her journey with her social media fam. Meanwhile, Hina Khan has been receiving much support not only from her fans but also from the film industry with members like Mahima Chaudhary and Sonali Bendre who have been through this painful experience before.

Also Read: Rozlyn Khan calls out Hina Khan using Cancer treatment as ‘publicity stunt’; says, “Patients can get into trouble if they follow her”

Anubhav Sinha, who recently made his web-series debut with the power-packed IC814: Kandahar Hijack, recalled his memories about Cash which featured an ensemble cast including Ajay Devgn. The filmmaker revealed that ever since the release of the year, almost two decades ago, the Bollywood superstar has never spoken to Sinha. However, he also insisted that they have never had a fight or showdown.

In an interview with Lallantop, Anubhav Sinha insisted that he has not been in touch with Ajay Devgn and said, “We have never fought. He just doesn’t speak to me and I have no idea why. Since the making of Cash, we haven’t even met for me to tell you he ignored me or something. So, maybe, it’s just me overthinking. However, I did text him a couple of times, and never received a response, so I told to myself that maybe it slipped his mind or he must have missed my message. But, it’s been about 18 years since we have spoken.”

The Ra.One filmmaker went on to share that he assumes that some of his thoughts and opinions that he may have put across in public may have resulted in this distance between them. “In between, I did comment on people’s political views, so I must have told him something too. But he was not the only person I commented about. I have said things to various people, but I still maintain good relations with them all. I am his admirer and I really respect him as an actor and individual,” he added.

However, all of this did not stop Sinha from showering praises on Devgn, whom he considers as one of our best actors and stars. “Ajay was among my favourite actors. I loved him both as an actor and an individual. He is fun to be with. He is like ‘yaaro ka yaar’. Ajay is always the first one to be there for a friend in need.”

Also Read: Ajay Devgn opens up on Singham Again debacle; says, “We’ll keep in mind that going ahead Singham is definitely going to beat up more villains”

The first epic film of the year, Chhaava, is all set to release this Friday, February 14. It stars Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna and Akshaye Khanna in the leading roles and tells the story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. The censor process was completed by the makers way in advance and Bollywood Hungama, in this article, will throw light on its Censor cuts.

Chhaava was passed with a U/A 16+ certificate by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). However, the film had to go through certain modifications. The dialogue 'Mughal sultanat ka zehar' was replaced with 'Uss samay, kayi shaasak aur sultanat khud ko zinda rakhne ki koshish kar rahe the'. Another dialogue 'Khoon toh aakhir Mughalon ka hi hai' was changed to 'Khoon toh hai Aurang ka hi'.

The words 'haramzaadon' and 'haramzaada' were muted while 'Aameen' was replaced with 'Jai Bhavani'. A certain dialogue in the first half was replaced while the CBFC asked the makers to remove the scene showing Maratha warriors clad in a saree.

That's not all. '16 saal' was replaced with '14 saal', '22 saal ka ladka' was replaced with '24 saal ka ladka' while '9 saal' was modified to 'kayi saal'.

Lastly, the CBFC members asked the makers to insert an audio-text disclaimer stating the name of the book from which the film is adapted and that it doesn't intend to defame anybody or distort historical facts.

Once these changes were made, the censor certificate was handed over to the makers of Chhaava on February 1. The length of the film, as mentioned on the certificate, is 161.50 minutes. In other words, Chhaava is 2 hours 41 minutes and 50 seconds long. Directed by Laxman Utekar of Luka Chuppi (2019) and Zara Hatke Zara Bachke (2023) fame, it is all set to release in cinemas on February 14.

Also Read: Vicky Kaushal seeks blessings at Shri Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga as Chhaava kicks off Pan-India promotions